Bananas Foster Cheesecake

Bananas Foster Cheesecake marries the richness of a creamy cheesecake with the warm, caramelized flavors of the iconic New Orleans dessert.

This show-stopping cake features a buttery oatmeal cookie crust, a velvety banana-infused cheesecake layer, and a decadent rum-spiced brown sugar caramel topping crowned with whipped cream and toasted nuts.

Perfect for special occasions or indulgent weekends, it delivers an unforgettable dessert experience.

Whether you’re a cheesecake lover or a fan of traditional Bananas Foster, this recipe brings both worlds together flawlessly. Follow along for detailed steps and tips to create a dessert that will wow your guests every time.

Ingredients Checklist

Gather all ingredients beforehand for a seamless baking process. This recipe is divided into crust, cheesecake filling, and Bananas Foster topping components.

For the Oatmeal Cookie Crust:

• 1 package (about 9 oz) oatmeal cookies, finely crushed

• ½ cup granulated sugar

• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 32 oz cream cheese, softened

• 1 cup light brown sugar, packed

• 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2-3 bananas)

• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

• 3 large eggs, room temperature

• 2 egg yolks, room temperature

• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg

• ¼ teaspoon salt

• ½ cup buttermilk or heavy cream

• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (optional, for stability)

For the Bananas Foster Topping:

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter

• ½ cup packed light brown sugar

• ¼ cup dark rum or rum extract (optional, for flavor and flambé)

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 3-4 ripe bananas, sliced

• 2 tablespoons heavy cream

• ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (toasted)

Garnishes (Optional):

• Dehydrated banana slices

• Additional chopped nuts

• Whipped cream

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps carefully to bake and assemble your Bananas Foster Cheesecake with layers of flavor and perfect texture.

1. Prepare the Crust:

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

• Crush oatmeal cookies finely in a food processor or place in a ziplock bag and crush with a rolling pin.

• Mix crushed cookies with sugar and melted butter until well combined.

• Press firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form an even crust.

• Bake for 8-10 minutes until set and golden. Remove and let cool.

2. Make the Cheesecake Filling:

• In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and brown sugar on medium speed until smooth and creamy.

• Add mashed bananas, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and flour; mix until combined.

• Beat in eggs and egg yolks one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

• Add buttermilk or heavy cream and vanilla extract; mix until fully incorporated.

• Pour batter evenly over the cooled crust.

3. Bake the Cheesecake:

• Place the springform pan inside a larger roasting pan.

• Fill the roasting pan with hot water about halfway up the sides of the springform pan to create a water bath.

• Bake at 350°F for 55-70 minutes until the edges are set and the center slightly jiggles.

• Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly ajar for 1 hour to cool gradually.

• Remove from water bath and chill in refrigerator at least 6 hours or overnight.

4. Prepare the Bananas Foster Topping:

• In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter.

• Stir in brown sugar and cook until sugar dissolves and mixture is bubbly.

• Add rum (if using), vanilla extract, and heavy cream; simmer gently.

• Add banana slices and cook for 2-3 minutes until bananas soften and caramelize lightly. Remove from heat and cool slightly.

5. Assemble the Cheesecake:

• Pour the bananas foster topping evenly over the chilled cheesecake.

• Sprinkle toasted chopped nuts on top.

• Optionally garnish with dehydrated banana slices and whipped cream before serving.

Tips for Perfect Results

• Room temperature ingredients: Ensure cream cheese, eggs, and buttermilk are at room temp for smooth batter.

• Water bath baking: Prevent cracks by baking cheesecake in a water bath to maintain moisture and gentle heat.

• Gradual cooling: Cooling cheesecake slowly in oven reduces cracks and improves texture.

• Use ripe bananas: For natural sweetness and smooth texture in the filling.

• Don’t overbake: The cheesecake should have a slight jiggle in the center when done.

• Make topping ahead: Bananas foster sauce can be made earlier and gently reheated before serving.

• Toast nuts: Enhances flavor and crunch.

Serving Suggestions

Elevate your Bananas Foster Cheesecake presentation and enjoyment with these ideas:

• Serve slices with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or vanilla bean ice cream.

• Drizzle extra warm caramel or bananas foster sauce for added richness.

• Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg on top for aromatic appeal.

• Pair with a glass of spiced rum or a dessert wine to complement the flavors.

• Garnish with fresh mint leaves for color contrast and freshness.

Final Thoughts

Bananas Foster Cheesecake is a luxurious dessert that perfectly blends the creamy decadence of cheesecake with the rich, caramelized warmth of Bananas Foster.

This recipe’s meticulous layering of spiced bananas, buttery crust, and rum-infused topping creates a harmonious dessert ideal for celebrations or indulgent treats.

By following the detailed instructions and tips, you can confidently bake a cheesecake that delights both visually and in flavor.

Whether served chilled or at room temperature, this dessert will become a treasured favorite, impressing family and friends with every bite.